“We equate him with all the impressionists, but he was basically an independent artist who blurred all the boundaries of painting. So, he would draw and paint at the same time and he didn’t stick to one medium,” said Strandring.

“He invented his own techniques of oil painting. He worked in as many different media as possible on his many different works through his entire career,” said Strandring.

Dancer, Fourth Position in Front on the Left Leg. Original wax model c. 1882-1895, cast in bronze c. 1919-1921.

Degas’ paintings are iconic, but most remain a work in progress.

“Degas never really finished anything. There is an unfinished characteristic to virtually all his works,” said Strandring.

Three Women at the Race, about 1885. Pastel on paper

His works are all part of his pursuit for perfection.

“Degas didn’t want to close. He didn’t want to finish a work of art. He simply wanted to keep working on it. It was all process,” Strandring said.

The Denver Art Museum is the only venue in America to host the exhibition.

Four Ballet Dancers On Stage, about 1885-1890, oil paint on canvas

It opens to the public on Sunday, but museum officials say tickets for that day are already sold out and they encourage visitors to purchase tickets before other dates sell out as well.